VHP Denies Link Between Arrested Nuh Violence Accused and Bajrang Dal
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has firmly denied any association between Raj Kumar alias Bittu Bajrangi, who was arrested in relation to the Nuh violence, and its youth wing Bajrang Dal, or any other VHP-affiliated organizations. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the VHP clarified that Mr. Bajrangi never had any connection with these groups.
Haryana Police had apprehended Mr. Bajrangi, who reportedly serves as the president of Goraksha Bajrang Force, a cow vigilante group claiming to be dedicated to animal rescue and rehabilitation. The police accused him and others of various offenses including rioting, criminal intimidation, armed robbery, obstructing a public servant from discharging duty, and violations under the Arms Act.
The VHP also declared that it finds the content of a video allegedly released by Mr. Bajrangi before the July 31 procession inappropriate. This video was believed to have exacerbated communal tensions. However, following the VHP’s statement, pictures of Mr. Bajrangi at a Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) camp began circulating on social media.
The clashes in Haryana’s Nuh district occurred during a religious procession organized by the VHP on July 31, resulting in the unfortunate loss of six lives, including two home guards and a cleric.
Despite the VHP’s denial of any links between Mr. Bajrangi and the Bajrang Dal, this incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding cow vigilantism and its impact on communal harmony in India. The issue of cow protection has been a highly contentious one, often pitting various groups against each other.
Communal clashes and violence are a recurring issue in India, and it is crucial for authorities to address the root causes and work towards promoting peace and understanding among different communities. It is important to conduct thorough investigations and hold individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their affiliations.
As this incident continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the authorities and relevant organizations will respond and strive to prevent such clashes in the future. It is imperative for society as a whole to prioritize dialogue, tolerance, and respect in order to foster a harmonious coexistence among all communities in India.
